Mexico Travel Advisory Advice Report

Mexico Travel Advisory Advice - Crime Report

Drug-related violence in Mexico has been scaring tourists who are considering an all-inclusive vacation in Mexico. Daily accounts of drug war violence is reported in the media both in Mexico and abroad.

More than 11, 000 people have been killed since the end of 2006. Mexico's nationwide toll from drug-related slayings is sometimes over 30 per day. Kidnappings, extortion and executions have terrified Mexicans and made tourists think twice before choosing Mexico as a tourist destination.

Although statistically, current crime rates are lower than 15 years ago in Mexico, that is not comforting or convincing to residents or tourists. A recent poll revealed that two-thirds think crime is worse than a year ago.

Violence is worst where the traffickers are feuding, as evidenced that 9 of Mexico's 31 states account for 80% of the violence and murders.

Tourist Travel Warnings for Kenya - post Kenyan Elections

Since the December 27, 2007 elections, Kenya remains an unsafe travel destination for tourists and has left tourists already in Kenya holed up in their hotel rooms and scrambling for flights out of the country.

The U.S. government has posted travel warnings for American citizens. U.S. citizens should be aware of the risk of indiscriminate and random attacks on civilian targets in public places, including tourist sites and locations where foreigners are known to gather, as well as businesses associated with U.S. or other foreign interests.

American travelers in Kenya, should register with the U.S. Embassy located on United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi; telephone (254) (20) 363-6000; fax (254) (20) 363-6410. In the event of an after-hours emergency, the Embassy duty officer may be contacted at (254) (20) 363-6170.

The Canadian government's Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada has advised against non-essential travel to Kenya as a result of the current level of violence and instability following the presidential and parliamentary elections held on December 27, 2007.

Violence and riots have been reported throughout the country, particularly in Nairobi and surrounding areas, in Mombasa and in Kisumu. Airports are open and operational. Caution should be exercised on the road to Jomo Kenyata International Airport.

Canadians in Kenya should monitor local news reports closely for up-to-date information on the situation. They should avoid unnecessary movements within cities and on roads, and exercise a high degree of caution. A large rally may take place in downtown Nairobi on short notice. Canadians are strongly advised to avoid all gatherings and demonstrations, including peace rallies, and to stay away from public areas where unrest could occur.

Canadian travellers already in Kenya should have their travel documents handy in case they choose to leave early. They should also register with the High Commission of Canada in Nairobi.

Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution because of the current high threat of terrorist attacks against Western interests in Kenya.

Canadians in Kenya should contact the High Commission of Canada in Nairobi at Limuru Road, Gigiri, Nairobi. Tel.: 254 (20) 366-3000 Fax: 254 (20) 366-3900.